Dual credit is a critical tool for expanding postsecondary access and success across Illinois. Since 2018, Education Systems Center (EdSystems) has been at the forefront of shaping the policies that govern these partnerships, ensuring they are high-quality, equitable, and student-centered.
Our Role
Establishing the Foundation (2018–2019)
Following the 2018 amendments to the Dual Credit Quality Act (DCQA), EdSystems was engaged by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to facilitate the original Model Partnership Agreement (MPA) Committee. This cross-stakeholder group—comprised of representatives from community colleges, public universities, and school districts—developed a standardized MPA to streamline the expansion of dual credit. Adopted in 2019, the agreement provided a statewide framework for high school and postsecondary partnerships, covering faculty qualifications, course standards, and student participation.
2019 Model Partnership Agreement
View the original framework that set the standard for Illinois dual credit partnerships.
- Model Partnership Agreement form with signed letter
- Associated exhibits of the Model Partnership Agreement
- Model Partnership Agreement and associated exhibits
- Model Partnership Agreement FAQ
Current Work
While dual credit has grown significantly, the policy landscape has evolved. In response to Public Act 104-0012 (2025) and the shifting Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accreditation standards, EdSystems is partnering with the ICCB to lead a comprehensive update to the dual credit administrative policy and the MPA. Beginning in 2026, key initiatives include:
- Committee Facilitation: EdSystems provides targeted policy expertise and facilitation support for the newly formed Dual Credit Committee and its sub-committees. We synthesize findings and research to ensure policy updates are grounded in both legislative requirements and field-level realities.
- Updating the Model Partnership Agreement: We are leading the technical revision of the MPA. This includes integrating committee inputs, conducting desk research on national best practices, and developing new exhibits that reflect current laws and instructor qualification pathways.
- Stakeholder Coordination: To ensure these updates are informed by those doing the work, we leverage our leadership in the P-20 Network’s Dual Credit Think Tank, the Illinois Alliance for Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (ILACEP), and the Illinois Education and Career Success Network.
- Identifying Emerging Opportunities: Beyond the MPA, we are working with ICCB to identify new guidance needed in the field, including the identification of priority courses and the alignment of dual credit with the State of Illinois Model Programs of Study Guides (part of Illinois’ Perkins plan).
New Resources: Coming Soon
We are currently drafting updated MPA exhibits and communication resources to help districts and colleges navigate the new requirements of the amended Dual Credit Quality Act.
